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Do I need a valid
passport?
Probably. The rules have recently changed for US citizens traveling abroad. Here are some guidelines:
- US citizens 16 years or older will need a valid passport, a valid passport card, or other documentation approved by Homeland Security.
- Children under 16 may currently travel with a birth certificate (original state issued or a certified true copy).
- Foreign citizens will need a passport, plus any other documentation mandated by the US or Bahamian governments.
If you have ANY questions, call your local Customs and Immigrations office at 1-800-375-5283 or go online to the US Department of State website. To apply for a US passport click here.
May I call you with
questions as I plan my vacation?
Of course, and you will have a coordinator
assigned to you when you set a travel date; your coordinator is there to
answer all questions regarding your trip.
May I take a pet with me?
No, because you are going out of the country,
no pets are allowed.
May I take extra people
with me?
Yes. Children 2 years and under are $29; for ages 3 to 5 years the price is $79; from 6-12 the price is $99; 13 and older the price is $149. These prices include port charges and ship fees, and there is a maximum of four people in a room. Extra couples in their own room may also be added.
Is there easy access to
beaches and the casino?
Yes. During the day there
is a public bus system that runs all over (this is $1 per person each
way); the busses run from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.. The Island Palm also has a
free shuttle running to the beach throughout the day. Please note:
there is a union concession at the port, and you are required to take a
cab from the ship to your hotel; this is approximately $4 per person each way.
How can you sell this
package at this price?
We are able to offer this low price because we
are able to negotiate low ship and hotel rates due to our large volume;
this allows us to offer us much better rates than retail travel agencies
can provide. Also, by working with large groups and corporations (such as
yours), we are able to keep our marketing costs low; we pass these savings
on to you.
Is this tied to any
timeshare program?
No. This is just what we represent, a vacation
that you can use when you want to at a price that you can afford.
Are there any
hidden charges?
No. Some other
companies try to charge bogus or inflated taxes, but we do not. All charges
are disclosed, and you do not pay the balance until you set your travel
date. There is one tax not included in this package: the Bahamian
Resort Tax is paid at check in at every hotel; this covers all hotel
taxes, energy surcharges, and gratuities for the housekeeping staff, and is
approximately $15 per adult/per night. As of December 2004, the cruise line will collect a $10 per person Homeland Security Fee.
What currency
do I need?
The US dollar and Bahamian dollar
are at par (equal value), and US currency is used everywhere. There are ATM
machines, and credit cards and Travelers Cheques are widely accepted.
Should I book
tours and activities on the ship before I get to the Island?
No. There is
an activities desk at each hotel, and they can book any activity desired, as
well as provide up to date and specialized information regarding activities.
PLEASE NOTE: the rates on activities sold
by the ship may be higher, and there is no way to make any changes or
cancellations if you book on the ship.
May I use a
hair dryer and other appliances?
Yes. Electricity is the same cycle
and voltage as in the U.S.. Check with your cellular provider to make sure
that your phone will work. Also, phone cards are readily available.
Do I need any
special vaccinations?
No. Plus, you don't have to worry
about the water; the Bahamas has an abundant fresh water supply, and the
water tastes great!
What is "Duty
Free" shopping?
A duty is a tax on goods imported
to this country. You may bring back up to $400 in goods (per person, subject
to change) when you return to the U.S.. There are some tremendous bargains
available!
Overall, even
though the Bahamas is a foreign country, it is very enjoyable and convenient
for Americans; English is the official language, currency is of equal
value, and you can drink the water! Have a wonderful trip!
Discovery Update (July 7, 2008) -
All adult passengers may have one checked bag, and one carry-on bag (plus a purse or briefcase).
Children may have one carry-on bag. There is now a charge for checked luggage in excess of these guidelines.
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